Canon PowerShot SX200 IS Review

Like its predecessors, the Canon PowerShot SX200 IS is top notch in terms of image quality. It generally produces well exposed images with balanced colour. The auto-ISO mode is fairly accurate. But the issues with this lens in terms of chromatic aberration continue. There is visible purple fringing at high zooms and in contrasty situations.

The ‘Smart Auto’ uses Canon’s Scene Detection Technology to analyze a scene in detail and then select one of the different modes - portrait, portrait w/backlight, night portrait, night scene, sunset, and macro.

An ‘Easy Auto’ mode is for novices who prefer to simply point and shoot – the only other control which works in this mode is the flash.

The Canon PowerShot SX200 IS improved Face Detection mode now features ‘Blank Detection’ to avoid photographing people with their eyes closed.

A ‘Face Self Timer’ waits until the user enters the frame, and after 2 secs, takes a series of 3 photos.

Custom Self Timer lets one program the delay in seconds as well as the number of shots to be taken, a distinctly unique feature.

Motion –Detection helps reduce blur in images

i-Conrast helps improve contrast by brightening dark areas of the image while trying not to blow out highlights.

There’s no scope for error here – Canon’s legendary Optical Image Stabilization (IS) works the same magic its been performing in all the IS cameras right from the PowerShot S1IS. The PowerShot SX200 IS offers a distinct three stop advantage over images taken with IS switched off. As with other PowerShot cameras, IS can also be used in movie mode.

The PowerShot SX200 IS has a pop-up flash, which takes its name a bit too seriously and keeps popping up irrespective of its need. But that does not hinder in any way. Photos taken using flash come out well exposed, though the flash range of 2m (tele) and 2m (wide) is a bit on the lower side.

Canon uses a two-pronged approach for this issue. The red-eye reduction lamp first shoots off light to constrict the pupil, and the in-camera red-eye detection software eliminates ay residual red-eye. Overall, effects produced were quite acceptable.

The quality of movies was very good. One can record at resolutions upto 720p at 30fps, with a maximum record time of 30 minutes per clip. Movies are saved using the H.264 codec. Though IS can be used while recording, surprisingly, optical zoom could not. I feel its been overlooked, as this feature is available in S series of Canon Powershots as well as competing models from Panasonic.

It retails for around $340. That makes it quite affordable for the features it offers. A 12 MP 12X zoom camera offering a multitude of intelligent modes and 720p movie recording is not such a bad deal at this price at all!